Wing Lake via Rainy Pass

Evan Strandberg

Explorer

Wing Lake via Rainy Pass

12/30/24

One of my favorite backpacking destinations in the North Cascades. Tucked beneath the menacing looking Black Peak, this is a perfect spot for those wanting to enjoy Wing Lake and the surrounding peaks of the North Cascades. For those feeling more adventurous, you can scramble up to the saddle above Wing Lake or continue up to the summit of Black Peak (which requires Class III scrambling skills and gear) where you'll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views. This destination is arguably more stunning in the fall during larch season (end of Sept/beginning of October) as the deciduous conifer trees lose their needles and turn a golden yellow color in the process. However, keep in mind this is a very popular area and has gained even more popularity over the years in the fall months during "larch madness." Based on this, going during the summer (or weekdays for that matter) may allow for a bit more solitude Please be advised that a permit is required to stay overnight here (or anywhere in the North Cascades for that matter), which requires obtaining a permit via the permit lottery on Recreation.gov. You will have greater chances of obtaining a permit if you enter the "early access lottery" and are a successful applicant to apply before the general public. Best of luck!

5.0

Bryan Carroll

Scout

Wing Lake via Rainy Pass

05/02/16

This lake sits just below Black Peak, which stands at 8,970ft. The lake makes a great place to set up camp to climb this beast! Also, you may run into snow until July so make sure to check conditions before heading up.

5.0